Manas National Park and Tiger Reserve (MNP & TR) has successfully concluded a landmark international training program aimed at revolutionizing the management and welfare of captive Asian elephants. Held from February 1st to 4th, 2026, the initiative brought together experts from the Australian charity HELP Foundation, along with teams from Kaziranga National Park and the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI). With nearly one-third of the world’s critically endangered Asian elephant population living in captivity, the program focused on implementing science-based, ethical training methods. The HELP Foundation team worked intensively with a group of specially chosen mahouts from Manas and Kaziranga, focusing on welfare-friendly practices that replace traditional methods with positive, pressure-release reinforcement.
Science-Backed Welfare for Mahouts and Elephants The four-day curriculum covered all aspects of modern elephant training. These “Master Mahouts” are being groomed to take on future responsibilities as lead trainers for new recruits across Northern India. A primary goal is ensuring calm, safe interactions, which are vital for daily management and for performing veterinary procedures that are stress-free for both the animals and the medical staff.
Dr. Andrew McLean, lead trainer from the HELP Foundation, expressed his satisfaction with the progress: “We are so pleased to be able to work with the staff from Kaziranga and Manas National Parks; their commitment to welfare is both authentic and commendable. We last worked with these mahouts several years ago, and their retention of the principles is excellent.” The program highlights Manas National Park’s role as a vital part of global initiatives for holistic conservation. Dr. C. Ramesh, IFS, Field Director of Manas National Park, noted: “At Manas, we are proud to be at the forefront of elephant welfare, implementing world-leading and scientifically backed methods which will make a kinder world for elephants. This is a collaborative effort and shows what sustained and positive outcomes can be achieved when we all work together.”
The partnership also underscores a strong bond between Australia and India in wildlife protection. Mark Trayling, Chair of the HELP Foundation, highlighted the shared values of the two nations: “In Australia, we’re fortunate to have kangaroos and koalas, and India is blessed with extraordinary wildlife like elephants, tigers, rhinos, and lions. We both work toward a shared goal: giving these animals their best possible life. It’s an honour to be at Manas, celebrated internationally as a conservation success story over the last two decades.” This training initiative adds another chapter to the “Manas Success Story,” complementing the park’s achievements in increasing rhino and tiger numbers by ensuring that its captive elephant population—the backbone of forest patrolling—is managed with the highest global standards of ethics and kindness.
